1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer (113 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 1979 Fiat 131 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. (117 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 131 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
